Friday, September 2, 2011

Looking forward to a Depression? Nope, but cake is always welcome!

There are so many versions of this cake but the history goes back to having to make do because of hard times, recession, depression era, etc. Thought it would be a fun recipe to put out there in view of how depressed the antics of our State and Federal Government make us! :-)

My Version of a Great Depression Cake

1 apple, peeled and grated (tart, green-skinned apples work best)
1 cup raisins or dried cranberries
2 cups brewed coffee,
2 cups granulated sugar sugar
1/2 cup shortening

Dry ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
|1 teaspoon each of nutmeg, all spice, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon freshly grated orange or lemon zest . . . or a combination of both.
1 cup chopped nuts, your choice

Directions

Simmer the first set of ingredients for 10 minutes. Remove the pot from stove and let cool for 10 minutes.

 Combine the dry ingredients. Place dry ingredients in a bowl, pour in cooked mixture. Mix ingredients together until it forms  a cake batter. Pour into a vegetable oil sprayed  9" x 13" baking pan. Bake for approximately 25 minutes at 350 degrees. To check if cake is done, place a toothpick in center.

Ideas . . .

Sift cooled cake with powered sugar before serving.

Have some freshly whipped cream ready for serving.

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